As the 2025 NBA Draft kicks off Wednesday, all eyes are on the Dallas Mavericks and the likely No. 1 overall pick. Former Duke Blue Devils standout Cooper Flagg is widely expected to be the top selection, thanks to his elite skill set, defensive instincts and basketball IQ.
There isn’t much debate about Flagg’s future; almost everyone agrees he’s headed for NBA stardom and long-term success at the highest level.
Earlier this week, NBA legend LeBron James offered some words of advice on his Mind the Game podcast, praising the 18-year-old forward and expressing high expectations.
“@Cooper_Flagg has all the tools to succeed in the next chapter of his career.”
"You know you're the No. 1 pick. You know the entire basketball world is looking at you. That's going to come with a lot of expectations." co-host Steve Nash said.
"Yeah, absolutely, well, one, you are super excited. [expletive], it's what we all dreamed of as kids." James responded.
James went on to talk about what it was like to be that top pick.
"You are in awe, man. I can't believe that this dream is finally coming true. And at the same time, there is a little anxiety and pressure. As the No. 1 pick, there are automatic expectations." he said.
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers
Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Flagg, a native of Newport, Maine, won’t turn 19 until December. He reclassified to enter college a year early and wrapped up an impressive freshman season at Duke. Before college, he starred at Montverde Academy in Florida, a powerhouse prep program.
The 2025 National College Player of the Year brought in a haul of awards during his one year at Duke. He won the Lute Olson Award, Julius Erving Award and Wayman Tisdale Award. He was a consensus first-team All-American and earned both ACC Player of the Year and ACC Rookie of the Year honors.
By doing so, Flagg joined an elite group of Blue Devils — Zion Williamson, Marvin Bagley III and Jahlil Okafor, as the only players in ACC history to win both awards in the same season. He was also named the 2022 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year.
Flagg averaged 19.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. He made headlines off the court as well, becoming the first men's college basketball player to sign an endorsement deal with Gatorade.
With Dallas holding the No. 1 pick, Flagg is poised to become the Mavericks’ new franchise cornerstone. If his college resume and LeBron’s endorsement are any indication, the NBA’s next star might be just getting started.